Ahmed Musa Retires from Super Eagles, Ends Illustrious International Career

Former Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa has announced his retirement from international football, bringing to a close a distinguished career with Nigeria’s national team that spanned nearly 15 years and included the country’s triumph at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Musa, a former Leicester City forward, made the announcement on Wednesday, describing his time with the Super Eagles as a source of immense pride. In an emotional message addressed to Nigerians and the national team family, the winger said the decision followed deep reflection on a journey that began with his first national team call-up.

He wrote that wearing the green and white of Nigeria meant everything to him, adding that while football gave him a career, Nigeria gave him purpose. Musa expressed gratitude to his teammates, coaches, backroom staff, administrators, and fans, acknowledging their support throughout his international career. He said he was stepping away with peace and gratitude, confident that he had given his best and that the Super Eagles would continue to move forward.

Fondly known as “The Governor,” Musa leaves the national team as Nigeria’s highest goalscorer at the FIFA World Cup, having netted four goals across two tournaments. He scored twice against Argentina at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and repeated the feat four years later at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where his brace secured a 2–0 victory over Iceland.

Now 33, Musa began his football journey with Kano Pillars before moving to Europe, where he enjoyed successful spells with clubs including CSKA Moscow in Russia, VV Venlo in the Netherlands, and Turkish sides Fatih Karagümrük and Sivasspor. He also featured for Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, playing a key role in the club’s title-winning campaign.

After years abroad, the AFCON winner returned to Kano Pillars in September 2024 as a player and was later appointed general manager of the club, marking a new chapter in his football career off the pitch.

Musa’s retirement comes just weeks after fellow Super Eagles stalwart William Troost-Ekong also announced his exit from international football. Musa was last called up to the national team during the 2023 AFCON, where Nigeria finished as runners-up after losing the final to hosts Côte d’Ivoire, although he did not feature in any match during the tournament.

With his departure, Musa bows out as one of the most recognisable and accomplished figures in Nigerian football history, leaving behind a legacy defined by longevity, leadership, and memorable performances on the biggest stages.